The Story

On May 16th, 2012, just prior to the NATO summit in Chicago, three Occupy activists were arrested and eventually charged with 11 felony counts, including four under the never-before-used Illinois terrorism statute. Brian “Jacob” Church, Brent Betterly, and Maya Chase (formerly Jared Chase) came to be known as the NATO 3. The case went to trial in January of 2014, and the NATO 3 were acquitted of all of the terrorism charges. Unfortunately, the jury found them guilty of two felonies each—possession of an incendiary device with the intent to commit arson and possession of an incendiary device with the knowledge that another intended to commit arson. They were given sentences ranging from 5 to 8 years.

Brent Betterly is the second of the three to be released. He is scheduled to rejoin us in late April or early May. Please donate to his release fund to help ease the transition after 3 years behind bars. Donations are needed to help pay for Brent's living expenses while he works to get back on his feet during the immediate aftermath of his incarceration. Brent is also the father of a small child who lives several states away and needs funds to help remain in contact with him.

If you'd like to write to Brent before his release, please address envelopes to:

Brent Betterly

M447244017 E. 2603 RoadSheridan, IL 60551

And if you have any questions, you can email us at freethenato3 (a) gmail (dot) com, or check out our website at freethenato3.wordpress.com.

If you'd like to write to Maya, whose release date is scheduled for May of 2016, please address letters to Maya Chase and address envelopes to:Jared ChaseM447102600 N. Brinton AvenueDixon, IL 61021

Fundraiser Updates

Posted on April 7, 2015

Posted on April 7, 2015

Brent Betterly learned late last week that his out date was moved up to April 16th. He is very excited about getting out of prison after 3 years and wants to thank everyone for their generosity and solidarity.

When he is released he plans to use the funds raised for basic living expenses, like food and clothing, and anything left he plans to put towards getting his 7 year old son, who lives in New York, to visit him in Chicago over the summer.